A joint anti crime operation targeting illegal mining activities in Gauteng has led to the arrest of six undocumented foreign nationals and the seizure of equipment and materials worth more than R300,000, authorities said.
The operation, conducted on April 29, 2026, brought together members of the Solomon Mahlangu Regiment’s Charlie Company and the South African Police Service. It focused on the Primrose area, specifically the Makausi informal settlement, which has been identified as a hotspot for illicit mining and related criminal activity.
Officials reported that the six individuals were arrested for contravening the Immigration Act by being in the country illegally. No injuries were reported during the operation.
Authorities also confiscated a range of items believed to be used in illegal mining operations, along with alcohol suspected to be traded unlawfully and dangerous explosives. The total estimated value of the seized items stands at R339,235.
Among the confiscated materials were gold bearing equipment, including generators, gas cylinders, crushing ball buckets, hammers and pentukas, valued at approximately R160,880. In addition, alcohol worth an estimated R178,355 was seized.
Law enforcement also recovered explosives, including green connector capped fuses, green blasting cartridges and orange detonating cord, raising concerns about the potential risks posed to nearby communities.
The operation forms part of ongoing efforts by security forces to curb illegal mining and associated criminal networks in Gauteng, where such activities have been linked to violence, environmental damage and economic losses.
Authorities indicated that similar operations will continue across the province as part of a broader strategy to restore law and order in affected areas.